Richland To Host Annual National Night Out And City Fair On August 5 (Photo) -08/02/25

The City of Richland invites residents of all ages to join in the fun at the annual National Night Out and City Fair, held Tuesday, August 5, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Howard Amon Park,  near the Fingernail Stage.

This free, family-friendly event is part of the nationwide National Night Out campaign—a community-building initiative that promotes partnerships between law enforcement and neighbors to make our communities safer, more caring places to live.

Richland’s event will bring together police, fire, emergency services, and a variety of City departments for an evening of activities, demonstrations, and opportunities to connect. Attendees can explore exhibits, speak with City representatives, and learn about public services and resources available throughout the community.Highlights include:

• Opening Ceremony at 5:00 p.m. on the Fingernail Stage
• Live music by the Knutzen Brothers
• Free hotdogs for the first 500 guests compliments of Hayden Homes and Doggie Style Gourmet Hot Dogs
• Hands-Only CPR Training at 6:00 p.m. by Richland Fire & Emergency Services as part of the HeartSafe Richland initiative
• City Pass Challenge for children 12 and under with a chance to win one of several bicycles
• Interactive booths, games, and giveaways for all ages
• Food trucks and concessions available for purchase throughout the event
  • Doggie Style Gourmet Hot Dogs
  • Sweet Snack Attack
  • KC Brand Kettlecorn
  • Sweet Squeeze Lemonade

To ensure a safe and walkable space, Lee Boulevard at Amon Park Drive will be closed to vehicle traffic during the event. Parking is available at the Richland Community Center, along the park. Attendees are encouraged to take the Ben Franklin Transit shuttle from the City Hall parking lot at 625 Swift Blvd. The shuttle will begin at 4:45 p.m. and stop every 15 minutes at the corner of George Washington Way and Lee Blvd. The last pick-up will be at 7:45 p.m.

Join us in celebrating community spirit and partnership with the people who serve and protect our neighborhoods every day. We look forward to seeing you there!

For more information, visit www.ci.richland.wa.us.

Traffic Safety Improvement Projects Set To Begin In Richland (Photo) -08/01/25

The City of Richland is making progress on important traffic safety enhancements throughout the community. The Systemic Stop-Controlled Intersection Safety Improvement Project is nearing completion.

As part of this work, the westbound lane of the Swift Blvd and Wright Ave roundabout will be closed from August 4th - August 15th. A clearly marked detour will be in place to help guide drivers safely around the area (see detour graphic). We appreciate your patience and understanding as this work is completed as quickly and efficiently as possible.

In addition, installation of the Advanced Warning System at the intersection of Duportail Street and Kennedy Road is expected to be completed by August 8.

More information regarding the City of Richland’s Traffic Safety Improvement projects can be found at www.ci.richland.wa.us.

City Of Richland Receives Grant From Wildhorse Foundation To Enhance Vehicle Extrication Capabilities -07/30/25

The City of Richland Fire & Emergency Services has been awarded a $15,900 grant from the Wildhorse Foundation to purchase a hydraulic spreader; an essential tool used in vehicle extrication. This equipment will complete a full set of extrication tools, enhancing the department’s ability to safely and efficiently rescue individuals trapped in motor vehicle collisions.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Wildhorse Foundation for their generous support,” said Deputy Fire Chief Randy Aust. “This new hydraulic spreader will allow us to further improve our rescue capabilities, reduce response times, and ultimately help save lives during critical emergencies.”

The hydraulic spreader plays a vital role in quickly removing vehicle components to reach and extricate crash victims, making it a key component of the department’s life-saving toolkit. This grant-funded purchase not only strengthens Richland’s emergency response but also helps ease budget constraints by allowing the department to reallocate funds to other essential services.

The Wildhorse Foundation supports nonprofit, government, and Tribal organizations within the homeland of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla peoples, as well as qualifying Tribal and Indian organizations across Oregon and the region. Since its inception in 2001, the Foundation has awarded over $19 million in grants to eligible organizations.

For more information, visit www.TheWildhorseFoundation.com.

Richland Fire & Emergency Services Hiring For Multiple Firefighter Positions -07/25/25

Richland Fire & Emergency Services (RF&ES) is actively recruiting qualified candidates to fill 9 to 11 firefighter positions, including Entry-Level Firefighters, Lateral Firefighters, and Firefighter/Paramedics. This is an outstanding opportunity to begin or continue a rewarding career in public service with a department that values teamwork, community, and professionalism. Recruitment for 2026 vacancies is happening now with opportunities for interviews in September 2025. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply today!

"We are looking for individuals who want more than just a job," said Richland Deputy Fire Chief, Randy Aust. "We have expanded our footprint with new stations throughout Richland. We want dedicated team players who are committed to making a difference and building a long-term career serving the Richland community. We have also increased our incentives for lateral fire placement. If you are looking for a better cost of living and a family-friendly quality of life, consider coming to Richland.”

RF&ES is a modern, forward-thinking fire department known for its strong commitment to safety, training, and professional growth. The department is proud to offer competitive wages, generous benefits, and supportive work culture that prioritizes work-life balance and career development.

Open Positions:

• Entry-Level Firefighter
  Learn more and apply here
• Lateral Firefighter (EMT/Paramedic)
  Learn more and apply here
• Firefighter / Paramedic
  Learn more and apply here

Whether you're just starting out or bringing years of experience, Richland Fire & Emergency Services offers a supportive environment where your skills will be recognized, and your growth encouraged.

Apply today and be part of a department that puts service, safety, and community first.

For more information, visit: www.wearerichland.org or email WeAreRFD@ci.richland.wa.us to speak with a recruiter.

The City Of Richland Seeks Interested Citizens For Board, Committee And Commission Vacancies -07/23/25

The City of Richland is currently seeking civic-minded residents to serve on several of its boards, committees, and commissions. These volunteer positions provide an opportunity for community members to get involved, share their expertise, and help shape important decisions affecting the future of Richland. Applications are now being accepted for current vacancies and upcoming term expirations.

The City currently has existing and forthcoming openings on seven of its Boards, Committees, and Commissions (BCC):

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Citizens Review Committee
• Board of Adjustment
• Economic Development Committee
• Library Board
• Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
• Personnel Committee
• Utility Advisory Committee

Americans with Disabilities Act Citizens Review Committee

Created in response to federal legislation to provide fundamental due process for persons aggrieved by the implementation and/or administration of the Americans with Disabilities Act as it applies to the policies, procedures, equipment, and property of the City of Richland.

Board of Adjustment

Conducts public hearings and makes decisions on applications for special use permits; grant permits when requirements are fully met; grants or denies variances to the regulations or restrictions in the Richland Municipal Code (RMC) when the variance is in harmony with general purposes and intent of the RMC; hears and decides on appeals to administrative interpretations of the city's zoning code.

Economic Development Committee

Formulates economic goals, strategies, and policies for the City in a structured framework providing both time and measurement criteria and assesses existing economic development policies for the purpose of recommending modifications, as may be appropriate, to assure achievement of economic goals approved by City Council.

Library Board

Establishes basic policies for the operation of the Richland Public Library, which includes budgetary planning to provide library services to the community. The Library Trustees have the powers and duties provided under the Revised Code of Washington (RCW).

Lodging Tax Advisory Committee

Reviews grant applications and make recommendations to City Council regarding allocation of local lodging tax funds, and reviews and comments on any proposed imposition of lodging tax, increase in the rate of lodging tax, repeal of an exemption from lodging tax, or change in the use of revenue received from lodging tax.

Personnel Committee

Monitors the administration and grading of competitive examinations and hears appeals on any disciplinary action resulting in suspension, demotion, reduction in pay or termination, any alleged violation of the established personnel plan related specifically to hiring or promotional opportunities, and any challenge to the reasonableness of the appointing authority’s actions related to a reduction in force.

Utility Advisory Committee

The Utility Advisory Committee (UAC) serves as an advisory body to the City Council relative to policy and planning for the managing, financing and operation of the utilities owned and operated by the City of Richland.

These groups serve as a vital link between the public and City leadership, providing input on a wide range of issues. All positions are volunteer-based and open to City of Richland residents (City employees are not eligible). Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.

To learn more about each board and submit an online application, visit www.ci.richland.wa.us/bccvacancies.

Richland Launches Mobile Security Pilot Program (Photo) -07/22/25

In a proactive move to enhance public safety, the City of Richland is deploying mobile security units at some local parks and landmarks. The locations identified are Claybell Park, Badger Mountain Community Park, and the Uptown Shopping Center City-owned parking lot. These areas have been prioritized due to increased incidents of street racing, gang activity, vandalism, illegal dumping, and theft.

This year-long pilot program utilizes advanced, solar-powered mobile cameras equipped with real-time monitoring technology. These units can be relocated to address emerging crime hotspots or to augment security at large events, such as The Ironman Triathlon and other significant community gatherings. The City will evaluate the effectiveness of this initiative and, if successful, consider making these units a permanent feature and expanding them to additional locations.

The City of Richland is committed to safeguarding both public safety and individual privacy. All video footage is managed by City policy, which restricts access to authorized personnel, limits retention to approximately 30 days unless needed for investigations, and ensures footage is only released as required by law. The City’s goal is to use this technology responsibly, maintaining public trust while enhancing security.

The project requires collaboration between several City departments. City Manager Jon Amundson states, “Leveraging technology to protect our community is a priority. These mobile surveillance units represent Richland’s commitment to identifying innovative solutions that keep our public spaces safe and welcoming.”

“These cameras can serve as a vital deterrent to criminal activity and provide critical evidence to help us identify and hold offenders accountable, ultimately making our community safer for everyone,” adds Chief of Police Marty Pilcher.

In addition, Parks and Public Facilities Director Chris Waite notes, “The Parks & Public Facilities Department values this partnership with Richland Police and the efforts taken to reduce crime and enhance the safety and enjoyment for all residents and visitors. The deployment of temporary security cameras is one of several measures being implemented to achieve this goal, along with a current proposal to reduce park hours of operation.”

Richland encourages residents to stay engaged and report suspicious activity as part of the City’s comprehensive approach to community safety.

More information regarding the City of Richland can be found at www.ci.richland.wa.us.

City Of Richland Launches Dedicated Website For Major Construction Project -07/15/25

The City of Richland has launched TheDowntownLoop.com, a dedicated website designed to keep residents and businesses informed about the Downtown Loop project — a construction effort aimed at improving access and safety in the downtown area.

The Downtown Loop will reconfigure George Washington Way and Jadwin Avenue into a one-way couplet between the intersections of Jadwin Avenue and Symons Street. The new configuration will feature barrier-separated, two-way bike lanes, wider sidewalks, on-street parking, upgraded lighting and improved pedestrian crossings, all designed to enhance the downtown experience for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

The project is a result of years of planning, technical studies and community conversations. From design recommendations and engineering analysis to extensive stakeholder input, this project offers a comprehensive and data-driven approach that meets the long-term goals for economic vitality and transportation safety.

As part of the implementation process, the City has begun the right-of-way acquisition process. This may involve temporary construction easements or partial land acquisitions. Informational letters and materials have been sent to impacted property owners outlining the process and their rights. 

“This project will bring lasting improvements to safety, mobility and economic development in our downtown area,” said Richland City Manager Jon Amundson. “We’re committed to transparency and easy access to information throughout the construction process. This website is one of the key ways we’re delivering on that promise.” 

As the project moves forward, TheDowntownLoop.com will serve as the community’s official source of information, and will be updated regularly with new construction updates, project details and community engagement opportunities. Residents, visitors and business owners can visit the site to stay informed, explore project documents, sign up for email notifications and more. 

Temporary Partial Closure Of Sacagawea Trail And Columbia Park West (Photo) -07/11/25

Starting on Monday, July 14, 2025, the western section of the parking lot at Columbia Park West will be temporarily closed to support the deconstruction of the Columbia Park Marina.

In addition, a portion of the multi-use trail will be closed from the parking lot heading west toward Wye Park (see image for details). A detour will be in place using the adjacent trail along Columbia Park Trail to maintain access for pedestrians and cyclists.

The project is anticipated to be completed in approximately two months. Please follow posted signs and detour routes during this project. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

For project updates, please visit www.ci.richland.wa.us.

Overnight Closure Planned For Portion Of Stevens Drive July 14th - July 15th (Photo) -07/10/25

As part of the Stevens Drive Reconstruction Project, the City of Richland will temporarily close Stevens Drive between Lee Boulevard and Swift Boulevard.

The full road closure will begin at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 14, 2025, and the road will reopen by 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 15, 2025. A clearly marked detour will be in place to guide drivers around the closure area.

Please refer to the attached map for detour routes, highlighted in yellow.

For more information, contact Richland Public Works at 509-942-7500 or visit www.ci.richland.wa.us/StevensDrive.

Community Members Invited To Apply For Pro/Con Committee For Upcoming Districting Ballot Measure -07/10/25

On October 8, 2024, the City of Richland received a petition to amend the Richland City Charter to move from at-large to district-based elections for members of Richland City Council.

On October 17, 2024, the Richland City Clerk issued a Certificate of Sufficiency confirming that the petition to amend the Richland City Charter to establish five (5) district-based council seats contained the requisite number of valid signatures to advance to a vote per RCW 35.22.120. The proposed amendment to the City Charter will appear on the Nov. 4, 2025, General Election ballot.

If approved by the voters, the amendment would modify Section 2.01 to the City Charter to allow election by district for some members of the Richland City Council. 

As part of the ballot measure process, Washington State law (RCW 29A.32.280) allows cities to seek residents to be appointed to serve on either the Pro or Con Committee for each ballot measure. 

To be eligible for appointment, individuals must reside within the jurisdictional boundaries of Richland.  Committee member names must be approved by City Council and submitted to the Benton County Elections Office by August 5, 2025.

Once appointed, both committees work independently of the City to prepare a written statement advocating either approval or rejection of the ballot measure to appear in the Benton County Voter’s Pamphlet. Committee members’ names will be included with the statement. The committees will also have an opportunity to prepare and submit a rebuttal in response to the statement prepared by the opposition.

• Initial pro/con committee statements are due by August 15, 2025.
• Rebuttal pro/con committee statements are due by August 20, 2025.

Interested residents can apply for either the Pro or Con Committee by completing the on-line application located here by Thursday, July 18, 2025 at 5 p.m. City Council will appointment members at a special meeting held on July 22, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.

Portion Of George Washington Way To Close This Weekend For See3Slam Basketball Tournament (Photo) -07/08/25

In support of the annual See3Slam 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, this weekend a portion of George Washington Way in Richland will be temporarily closed to vehicle traffic.

Beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, July 11, 2025, George Washington Way will be closed from Newton Street to Knight Street to allow for event setup and tournament activities. The road will reopen no later than 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 13, 2025.

Detour routes and signage will be in place to guide drivers around the closure. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra time when traveling through the area.

The City appreciates the community’s support and patience as we welcome visitors and athletes to this exciting community event.

For more information about See3Slam, visit www.see3slam.com.

Richland Fire’s Response To July 4th Commercial Structure Fire On Reata Road (Photo) -07/08/25

On Thursday, July 4, at approximately 11:45 p.m., Richland Fire & Emergency Services, along with regional mutual aid partners, responded to a commercial structure fire at 179 Reata Road in Richland. The first fire unit arrived on scene within five minutes of dispatch.

Upon arrival, crews encountered multiple storage units actively burning, with flames visible through the roof of several units. Crews were also informed that two adult males had sustained burn injuries while attempting to extinguish the fire prior to the fire department’s arrival. One individual was transported to a local hospital via private vehicle. The second individual, who sustained more significant injuries, was transported by Richland Fire & Emergency Services for emergency medical care.

The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes. However, due to the heavy fuel load within the storage units, fire personnel remained on scene for several hours to address hot spots and smoldering materials. An estimated 14 storage units were damaged because of the incident.

No injuries to firefighters were reported.

Fireworks activity was reported in the area shortly before the fire started. However, the cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Richland Fire Marshal’s Office.

Richland Fire & Emergency Services would like to thank our mutual aid partners—Benton County Fire District #1, Kennewick Fire Department, and Pasco Fire Department—for their assistance in managing this incident.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with those injured in this fire. We wish them strength and a full recovery in the days ahead,” said Richland Fire Chief Tom Huntington.

Richland Fire & Emergency Services is currently compiling data related to fire incidents and emergency responses connected to Fourth of July activities. A summary of those calls and impacts will be released once the information is finalized.

More information regarding Richland Fire & Emergency Services can be found at www.ci.richland.wa.us/fire.

Richland Fire and Emergency Service’s mission is To Protect and Enhance the Quality of Life. Our department is dedicated to carrying out our mission each day with our vision, "Service above all," always at the forefront. We do this through our highly trained firefighting personnel, nationally recognized emergency medical responders and with a heightened focus on prevention and public education.

City Of Richland Welcomes New Development Services Director, Mike Rizzitiello (Photo) -07/07/25

The City of Richland is pleased to announce the appointment of Mike Rizzitiello as its new Development Services Director, effective June 30, 2025.

Rizzitiello brings over 17 years of experience in both council-of-government and municipal leadership roles, offering a well-rounded background in planning, economic development, capital project oversight, and regional collaboration.

Originally from the south suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, Rizzitiello holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Planning from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Illinois at Chicago, with concentrations in local government administration, financial management, and information management.

Throughout his career, Rizzitiello has demonstrated a commitment to community-building and strategic growth. His professional journey has included roles such as Director of Information Services at the South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association in Illinois, and Economic Development Project Coordinator for the City of Beaverton, Oregon. He has most recently served as City Administrator for the City of College Place, Washington, where he successfully led a variety of key initiatives, including:

• Implementation of a comprehensive parks plan
• Oversight of multiple capital improvement projects
• Management of major development agreements totaling hundreds of acres of commercial, industrial, and residential space
• Recognition through the 2016 Smart Communities Award for the Colfax 2035 Comprehensive Plan Update during his tenure in Colfax, WA

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Rizzitiello is an active contributor to regional governance and community service. Serving on several boards, including the Walla Walla YMCA, Common Roots Housing Land Trust, Walla Walla County Council on Housing, and the Blue Mountain Action Council, he also chairs the Walla Walla Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization.

“Mike’s passion for urban planning and economic development, paired with his depth of experience in local government, make him an excellent addition to our executive leadership team,” said Joe Schiessl, Deputy City Manager. “He brings a thoughtful, collaborative approach that will help guide Richland through continued growth and development while keeping our community’s needs and character front and center.”

Rizzitiello will oversee Business & Economic Development, CDBG, Planning, and Permitting. Please join the City of Richland in welcoming Mike Rizzitiello to his new role as Development Services Director. His leadership and expertise will play a key role in shaping the city’s future development and livability.